Four County Catholic December 2021

FOUR COUNTY

CATHOLIC

Volume 33 • Number 11 • DECEMBER 2021 • SERVING THE COUNTIES OF MIDDLESEX • NEW LONDON • TOLLAND • WINDHAM, CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NY

A Catholic

Education The Gift that lasts a

Lifetime

Hundreds of supporters of Catholic Education look on as Jden Gonzales delivers his winning essay at the annual Seton Scholarship Dinner

Made Possible in part through your generous support of the Annual Catholic Appeal

In This Issue page

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page

10 Page

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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“They are like clean windows which perfectly allow the radiant sun to shine through them.”

Kate Goldstein, an active member of the Catholic community in Storrs, and convert to the faith, reflecting on a recent talk given by members of the Sisters of Life and the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal.

“Take advantage of that sacrament often. As often as possible, because only the Father knows the day and the time for each one of us.”

Permanent Deacon Michael Puscas, delivering what would be his final homily just hours before the Lord called him to Eternal Life.

“Educating young people about God’s unconditional love and mercy for the past 35 years has been an honor and a privilege. I go to work every day feeling blessed to be living out my vocation. There is no one luckier than me.”

Andrea Hoisl, Director of the Office of Faith Events and a former teacher at Xavier High School, accepting the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D. Award for Contributions to Catholic education in the Diocese of Norwich.

ON THE COVER The 11th Annual Seton Scholarship Dinner, postponed from 2020, was held on Sunday, November 7, 2021 at the Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station. Story on page 16.

­ESTABLISHED IN 1989 AND PUBLISHED EACH MONTH EXCEPT JULY. PUBLISHER

Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D. Bishop of Norwich

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POSTMASTER - SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: Four County Catholic, 25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-3613.

Four County Catholic Issue 10, NOVEMBER (PE 9934) is published monthly except July by The Diocese of Norwich, 25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-3613.

Periodicals postage paid in Hartford, CT 06101 and at additional mailing offices.

© Copyright 2021, Diocese of Norwich. All rights reserved.

No content may be reproduced without expressed consent.

CORRECTION - Marianne Nicholas from the Office of Faith Events was the author of the article on page 9 of the November issue. The name printed was incorrect. We apologize for the error.

We Can Help

Podemos ayudar

To report inappropriate conduct of any kind by a Diocesan Bishop please contact ReportBishopAbuse.org or call 1-800-276-1562 To report inappropriate contact of any kind by a representative of the Diocese of Norwich or for assistance for victims, please call: The Diocesan Reporting Line @ 1-800-624-7407

Para reportar una conducta inapropiada de cualquier tipo por parte de un obispo diocesano, por favor contacte ReportBishopAbuse.org o llame al 1-800-276-1562 Para reportar contacto inapropiado de cualquier tipo por medio de un representante de la Diócesis de Norwich o para asistencia a víctimas, por favor llame a La Línea de Reportaje de la Diócesis de Norwich 1-800-624-7407

If the incident involves a minor (persons under the age of 18), you must also call: State of CT Department of Children and Families Care Line 1-800-842-2288 -OR –State of NY Child Protective Services 1-800-635-1522

Incidents involving abuse of vulnerable adults aged 18-59 should be reported to: Connecticut Department of Developmental Services - AID Division for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities 1-844-878-8923

Incidents involving abuse of vulnerable adults aged 60 and over should be reported to: Connecticut Department of Social Services for the Elderly 1-888-385-4225

Si el incidente involucra a un menor (personas menores de 18 años), también debe llamar a Departamento de Niños y Familias de CT 1-800-842-2288 -O-Servicios de Protección de Niños del Estado de NY 1-800-635-1522.

Incidentes relacionados con el abuso de adultos vulnerables de 18-59 años de edad deben ser reportados a Departamento de Servicios al Desarrollo del Estado de Connecticut-División de Ayuda para Personas con Incapacidad Intelectual 1-844-878-8923.

Incidentes relacionados con el abuso de adultos vulnerables de 60 años de edad o más deben ser reportados a Departamento de Servicios Sociales Para Ancianos de Connecticut 1-888-385-4225.

THE MOST REVEREND

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

“And the Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us, and we saw His glory, the glory as of the Father’s only Son, full of grace and truth.”

(John 1:14)

to us of the true depth of the love that He continues to pour forth upon each These words speak to us, in a beautifully of us and our world. The opportunity to poetic way, of our Lord’s miraculous gift encounter the same Lord Jesus who was of Himself - a gift which He gave to born in the manger in Bethlehem but the world when He humbly took flesh is now risen and glorified - who again and was born in the simple manger in humbles Himself to become present to Bethlehem. us, Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity - is The gift, the true meaning of the now found in the Most Holy Eucharist.

Christmas event, is that the Lord, the Intimately tied to our Lord’s Incarnation, Eternal Word and Son of God the Father, the gift of the Most Holy Eucharist is the became flesh and made his dwelling mystery by which He continues to make among us. The mystery and miracle of his dwelling among us here and now. our Lord’s Incarnation stands at the very Sadly, as multiple surveys conducted in heart of our Catholic faith. It is the source recent years have shown, belief in the true of our hope. God’s great love and mercy, as and real presence of the Lord in the Most proclaimed in the Gospel message, began Holy Eucharist has declined significantly, with the birth of a child who would grow, even among those who self-identify as teach us the truth of the Gospel, and Catholics and who attend Mass regularly. ultimately offer His very life in sacrifice, This disturbing trend should be a cause of providing for those who believe in Him great concern for us all, but we must not the tremendous grace to share eternal life lose hope! with God and all the saints in heaven.

In response to these trends, the Bishops of May we never forget this miraculous gift the United States have recently approved of God’s love. a catechetical document on the Most Our annual celebration of the Lord’s Holy Eucharist that is being prepared Nativity provides an important reminder for publication in the new year. Plans for a national Eucharistic revival have also My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

been approved. More information about these two initiatives will be forthcoming.

It is my hope that they will reawaken and reinvigorate our understanding of this great gift of the Lord’s presence in the most Holy Eucharist. In the meantime, let us pray with greater fervor throughout this Christmas season that these initiatives will be successful and that we will never take the miraculous gift of our Lord’s birth, or of His abiding presence among us in the Most Holy Eucharist for granted.

May you, your families and loved ones have a truly merry Christmas and a New Year filled with God’s blessings!

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Michael R. Cote Bishop of Norwich

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY

Christmas Message 2021

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THE MOST REVEREND

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

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LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Mensaje de Navidad 2021

“ Y la Palabra se hizo carne, y puso su Morada entre nosotros, y hemos contemplado su gloria, gloria que recibe del Padre como Hijo único, lleno de gracia y de verdad.” ( Juan 1:14)

del amor que Él continúa derramando sobre cada uno de nosotros y sobre nuestro Estas palabras nos hablan de una manera mundo. La oportunidad de encontrar bellamente poética, del don milagroso que al mismo Señor Jesús quien nació en el nuestro Señor hizo de Sí mismo, un regalo pesebre de Belén pero ahora resucitado y que le dio al mundo cuando humildemente glorificado - quien nuevamente se humilla se hizo carne y nació en el sencillo pesebre para estar presente con nosotros, Cuerpo, de Belén.

Sangre, Alma y Divinidad - ahora se El don, el verdadero sentido del encuentra en la Santísima Eucaristía. acontecimiento navideño, es que el Señor, Íntimamente ligado a la Encarnación Verbo eterno e Hijo de Dios Padre, se de nuestro Señor, el don de la Santísima hizo carne y habitó entre nosotros. El Eucaristía es el misterio por el cual Él misterio y el milagro de la Encarnación continúa viviendo entre nosotros aquí y de nuestro Señor está en el corazón ahora. mismo de nuestra fe católica. Es la fuente Lamentablemente, como han demostrado de nuestra esperanza. El gran amor y la varias encuestas realizadas en los últimos misericordia de Dios, como se proclama años, la creencia en la presencia verdadera en el mensaje del Evangelio, comenzó y real del Señor en la Santísima Eucaristía con el nacimiento de un niño que crecería, ha disminuido significativamente, incluso nos enseñaría la verdad del Evangelio y, entre aquellos que se identifican a sí finalmente, ofrecería Su vida misma en mismos como católicos y que asisten a sacrificio, proporcionando a los que creen Misa con regularidad. Esta inquietante en Él la tremenda gracia de compartir la tendencia debería ser motivo de gran vida eterna con Dios y todos los santos en preocupación para todos nosotros, ¡pero el cielo. no debemos perder la esperanza!

Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo,,

Que nunca olvidemos este milagroso del amor de Dios.

regalo

Nuestra celebración anual de la Natividad del Señor nos brinda un recordatorio importante de la verdadera profundidad

debería ser motivo de gran preocupación para todos nosotros, ¡pero no debemos perder la esperanza!

Los obispos de los Estados Unidos, en respuesta a estas tendencias, aprobaron

recientemente un documento catequético sobre la Santísima Eucaristía que se está preparando para su publicación en el nuevo año. También se han aprobado planes para un avivamiento Eucarístico nacional.

Próximamente se proporcionará más información sobre estas dos iniciativas.

Tengo la esperanza de que esto despierte y revitalice nuestra comprensión de este gran don de la presencia del Señor en la Santísima Eucaristía. Mientras tanto, recemos con mayor fervor a lo largo de esta temporada navideña para que estas iniciativas tengan éxito y que nunca dejemos de valorar el don milagroso del nacimiento de nuestro Señor o de Su presencia permanente entre nosotros en la Santísima Eucaristía. ¡Que ustedes, sus familias y seres queridos tengan una Navidad verdaderamente feliz y un Año Nuevo lleno de las bendiciones de Dios!

Sinceramente en el amor de Cristo,

Michael R. Cote Obispo de Norwich

Vocations Corner 4th Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Dharen Brochero

3rd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Ruben Garcia Sanchez

3rd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

On October 28, 2021, Sister Mary Grace of the Sisters of Life came to the Chapel of St. Thomas Aquinas in Storrs for a talk on religious vocation and a panel discussion on discernment with Sister Mary Loreta of the Sisters of Life and Fathers Gabriel and Immanuel of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal. It was the second of three lectures in the Metanoia Fall lecture series. I asked Kate Goldstein, a recent high school graduate and convert to the faith and an active member of our Catholic community in Storrs, to reflect on her thoughts and impressions of the evening. Here is what she had to say: Growing up in a non-Catholic home I certainly had a false idea of people who choose to live out their lives in consecrated vocations. My thought at that point was that they had given up everything good, everything of value to gain nothing.

This perspective has changed since my becoming Catholic and journeying on the road of faith growing closer in all things to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

The Sisters of Life definitely broke down every prejudicial thought and stereotype I had of those in religious life. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to meet the sisters and listen to what they and the other religious present had to say about their vocations and how they have freely responded to God’s call with generous undivided hearts.

I was amazed at the pure joy and happiness they possess which is obviously a fruit of their own personal encounter with Jesus Christ; and by virtue of that encounter with Him they are very simply able to radiate God’s light and goodness onto others. Listening to the Sisters speak quickly reminded me of our Lord Jesus speaking in reference to the light on the stand: “Let your light shine before men that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is heaven.’’(Mt 5:16) I believe that the light of God shines through them because they have completely emptied themselves, through self-denial and conforming their lives to the life of Christ; becoming completely obedient to the will of God, “Not my will but

yours be done’’(Lk 22:42) and through God’s grace growing in lives of holiness and virtue. They are like clean windows which perfectly allow the radiant sun to shine through them.

Their witness and perspective is truly profound and beautiful because it is an example given for us in an anticipation of the life to come in the resurrection where, “they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven.’’(Mt 22:30) God has granted them the graces necessary to live in this manner while still in their earthly lives and they are able to be a radical and visible sign of God’s love in the world, offering a pre taste of the wedding feast of heaven. They have truly found the pearl of great price and have with joy gone and sold all that they have to obtain it. I think of what St. Paul speaks about as the folly of the cross and how to the modern world the radical life of chastity, poverty and obedience receives a certain reaction similar to that which the cross received; to the eyes of the world it is useless and complete foolishness however to those of us of faith it is the power of God. This life embodies the cross, the humility, the selflessness and ability to lay down one’s life out of love for another, knowing that when we are at our weakest, when we are being mocked and persecuted for our faith and for the sake of God is when we are nearest to Him. The sisters’ happiness and utter delight in God is efficacious and has certainly cultivated in me a desire to strive onward with the help of God’s grace to attain that same radiance of happiness and deposition of heart which they have come to receive as gifts from God.

Alexander Pandolfe

2nd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Julian Cuervo

2nd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Eric Hosmer

2nd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Let’s continue to pray for all of our young people, especially young people like Kate, as they continue to pray and discern God’s personal plan for each of them.

Mark Johnson

- Father Jonathan Ficara, Director of Vocations

1st Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

MONTHLY

Holy Hour

for Vocations

December 16, 6:00 p.m. – Most Holy Trinity, Pomfret January 20, 6:00 p.m. – Sacred Heart, Groton

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Deacon Jacob Ramos

“They are like clean windows…”

The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, leads the Holy Hour

God-Calls.com

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ACA Donors Share Their Hearts

By Mary Ellen Mahoney

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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n my May Four County Catholic article, I asked people to share with me their thoughts on why they donate to the Annual Catholic Appeal each year. As our year comes to a close, I reflect back on some of what I had gathered and noticed the common theme of giving from the heart. From people that I have had contact with, it is clear to me that we give our hard-earned money to the Annual Catholic Appeal, “One Faith, One Family” for one reason, and that is love.

Whether it be the needs of the family whose sole provider has been affected by COVID-19 or whose job has been lost because of its economic aftermath; the mom of three who takes great comfort from the programs offered by the Office of Faith Events; or the young seminarian who is working hard to become a shepherd for many, the needs of the ministries supported by the Annual Catholic Appeal are obviously great. To meet the needs of these ministries, each one of us

Norwich Diocesan Cemeteries

“By means of the Funeral Rites, it has been the practice of the Church, as a tender Mother,…to commend the dead to God…and to give witness to its own faith in the future resurrection of the Baptized with Christ.”

(Congregation for Divine Worship – 1969)

SAINT MARY & ST. JOSEPH CEMETERY 815 Boswell Ave., Norwich - 860-887-1019 SACRED HEART CEMETERY Harland Road, Taftville - 860-887-1019 SAINT PATRICK CEMETERY Depot Road, Uncasville - 860-887-1019 SAINT MARY CEMETERY Community Mausoleum Available 600 Jefferson Ave., New London - 860-887-1019 RESURRECTION CEMETERY Route 145, Westbrook - 860-887-1019 SACRED HEART CEMETERY Wauregan Road, Wauregan - 860-887-1019 ALL HALLOWS CEMETERY Green Hallow Road, Moosup - 860-887-1019

prayerfully considers how we are best able to do our part, to be the hands of Christ.

While our hearts are filled with the love of Christ and our neighbors, we are each able to support the ACA in our own unique way. Some donate money, others volunteer and still others pray. To each of you, and for all you give, we say thank you and God Bless you for your love.

“We give to the ACA because we know the money will be put to good use, to help many more people than I can myself. I know the ministries have worked really hard during the pandemic and need our help.”

“The soup kitchens help keep families together. So many families are facing tough times. The family unit is so important to our future.”

“The seminarians are our future and need to be supported. It gives me such hope to see the young men and women dedicate themselves to Christ.”

“Our church does a lot to help, with our luncheons and making meals for the homeless, but with the ACA, more can be done for more people.”

“Sister Rita and her Ministry to the Sick have really been a comfort to many I know over the years. She is a true angel.”

“The programs that help our children get excited about Christ are incredible and need to be continued, no matter what- they are the future of the Church.”

“Although I don’t get to church as often as I would like because of my work schedule, I can easily give online and do my part.”

Thank you to each of you who has donated to this year’s ACA. We are truly humbled by your kindness and keep you in our prayers. For those of you who are interested in donating to the Annual Catholic Appeal for 2021, please contact our Campaign Manager, Heather Harris, at 860-886-1928 or hharris@norwichdiocese.net.

Norwich Diocesan Cemetery Corporation 6

815 Boswell Ave, Norwich, CT 06360 860-887-1019

You may also donate online at www.norwichdiocesedevelopment.org.

Stone Shed Undergoes Transformation Guardian Angels Parish Volunteers Complete Chapel Project

By Ryan Blessing

Guardian Angels Parish clergy, Pastor Father Marek Masnicki and Parochial Vicar Father Richard Breton, as well as a dozen other visitors, attended the short ceremony on Oct. 29.

The bishop read from the First Letter of Paul to the Corinthians: “For we are God’s co-workers. You are God’s field, God’s building. By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it.”

The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, blessed the chapel with holy water.

The new chapel took several years to complete. Parishioners volunteered their time and material to expand the old stone equipment shed into a chapel. Inside are several statues, photos and other relics.

“Let us ask the Lord, the all powerful Father, to continue to strengthen us and to thank Him earnestly for the completion of this holy project,” the bishop said.

Guardian Angels Parish combines the former parishes of St. Andrew in Colchester and St. Francis of Assisi in Lebanon.

Please join us for the

Ordination to Holy Priesthood of Reverend Mr. Lawrence J. Barile Wednesday, December 8, 2021 at 10:30 am Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Norwich

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

A

n old storage area has been transformed into a bright and inviting chapel at the New Saint Andrew Cemetery in Colchester.

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In Memoriam

Advent Resources During the four weeks of Advent, we prepare for the celebration of Christ’s birth through prayer and reflection. We contemplate the First Coming of Jesus as Savior, and anticipate His promised Second Coming. Amid the flurry of Christmas preparations, we look for practical ways to observe the holiness of the season in our everyday lives.

To help with you with this preparation we have gathered various Advent resources into one convenient location.

NorwichDiocese.org/Advent

Reverend Thomas Smith August 27, 1953 ~ October 22, 2021

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Fr. Thomas James Derito Smith, retired priest of the Diocese of Norwich, Connecticut, went to our Lord, on Friday, October 22, 2021.

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A native of Derry, Pennsylvania, Father Tom was born on August 27, 1953 to the late Harry Earl and Sophia Anna (Derito) Smith.

He was baptized into the Roman Catholic faith by Father Thomas A. Connors, V.F. He had been a priest for 39 years.

His primary and secondary education was received at the Derry Area School District of Western Pennsylvania. Upon graduation, he entered Holy Apostles College Seminary, Cromwell, Connecticut, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Philosophy and a minor in Theology in 1976. He completed his studies for the priesthood at Mount Saint Mary Seminary, Emmitsburg, Maryland, earning a Masters Degree of Divinity in 1982.

Father Tom was ordained to the Priesthood in the Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Norwich on Saturday, May 22, 1982, by His Excellency the Most Reverend Daniel Patrick Reilly of Norwich.

After ordination, Father Tom was appointed a Parochial Vicar; Chaplain, Teacher and Student Counselor and Temporary Administrator to various parishes, thereafter receiving his first pastorate.

Father Tom was named pastor of Saint Ignatius of Loyola Church, Rogers, Saint Joseph Church, Dayville, Saint Mary Star of the Sea Church, New London, and Saint Sebastian Italian National Parish, Middletown.

Father Tom is survived by his brother: Harry Earl Smith, Jr. of Apollo, Pennsylvania; his sisters: MaryAnn Smith Kelly and her husband, Andrew of The Villages, Florida and Joanne Eleanor Smith Bernabei of Derry, Pennsylvania.

He was laid to rest in the Family Plot at Saint Joseph Cemetery in Derry, Pennsylvania.

Visit and bookmark this page because new resources are added weekly.

We pray that this helps you on your journey to Christmas.

A Prayer for Advent God of Love, Your son, Jesus, is your greatest gift to us.

He is a sign of your love.

Help us walk in that love during the weeks of Advent, As we wait and prepare for his coming.

We pray in the name of Jesus, our Savior - Author Unknown The National Black Catholic Congress®

In Memoriam “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the son, but the Father only.”

(Matthew 24:36)

Born May 2, 1953 Ordained June 11, 2005 Born to Eternal Life Nov. 7, 2021

Deacon Michael L. Puscas, a Permanent Deacon of the Diocese of Norwich assigned to the Guardian Angels Parish in Colchester and Lebanon and the Director of Permanent Deacon Personnel for the Diocese of Norwich died on Sunday, November 7, 2021.

Below is an excerpt from Deacon Michael’s obituary which can be read in its entirety at NorwichDiocese.org. The Homily mentioned below can be found there as well.

While enjoying a fitness swim as he often did, Deacon Michael Puscas closed his eyes upon this world for the last time the afternoon of Sunday, November 7th, 2021.

While we, his family announce his sudden yet peaceful passing with profound sorrow, we find greater comfort and consolation in words of the Homily he preached that same morning – on the importance of being ready to meet the Lord when He calls us. Our shared faith tells us that Michael reopened his eyes in the real and true presence of God, gazing upon his new and eternal Heavenly home.

Born May 2, 1953 in Aurora, IL and raised there, he was a son of Barbara (Buettgen) Puscas of Aurora, IL and the late Victor Puscas. Michael was a graduate

of Marmion (Military) Academy in Aurora; a Catholic-Benedictine college preparatory high school for young men dedicated to spiritual formation, academic excellence and leadership development. He went on to earn his Master’s degree in Instructional Technology and his Doctorate degree in Education from Northern Illinois University.

Early on, Michael worked as a Special Agent with the U.S. Secret Service, protecting Presidents Ford, Carter, and Reagan, and in doing so, received a special award for achieving peaceful resolutions to potentially violent situations. The majority of his “secular” career was spent in the electric industry; he was currently a Standards Compliance Manager for ISO-New England in Holyoke, MA. A gifted visionary, Michael earned national recognition as a leader in his field.

Work paid the bills, but there were two great love affairs that truly enveloped Michael’s life – which he believed both divinely-inspired.

The first - for God and His Church – was fostered and nurtured from his birth; while the second began when he married his best friend and the love of his life, the former Colleen Metternich on Sept. 29, 1979. Their union and the family they would create was truly like a fairy tale! That story included

countless God given talents, which Michael always shared with humility.

Along with their young family, Colleen and Michael relocated to Colchester in the early 1990s and found their new spiritual home at St. Andrew Church in Colchester.

Michael was a brother with Francis Cardinal Spellman Knights of Columbus Council 6107 and was active with the ACTS Men’s Retreat movement. He served as a lector, Eucharistic Minister and catechist to name just a few of his ministries. However, he, as two of his brothers also have, felt a deeper calling to serve God and His people – a call to ordained ministry.

Michael began his theological studies at Holy Apostles Seminary in Cromwell, CT and journey toward Diaconate.

He leaves to mourn his loss but forever cherish his love and memory his beloved wife of 42 years, Colleen; their four children, whom have made them both so incredibly proud – Alexa Sifuentes (and her husband, Paul) of Indianapolis, IN; Blair Puscas of New York City; Emily Toole (and her husband, Robert) of Geneva, Switzerland and Julia Eckrich (and her husband, Andrew) of Noblesville, IN; eight adored (and adorable) grandchildren, Luke, Victoria, Peter, Natalie, Regina,

Maximilian, Augusta, Andre; four siblings, Deacon Steve Puscas (and his wife, Sue) of Nebo, NC, Mary McCarthy (and her husband, Richard) of Madison, CT, Louie Puscas (and his wife, Cathy) of Mt. Pleasant, SC and Deacon Vic Puscas (and his wife, Elizabeth) of Yorkville, IL; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and faithful.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations in his memory be made to the Haitian Health Foundation, 97 Sherman St., Norwich, CT 06360 (www. haitianhealthfoundation.org) For online condolences, please visit www. auroramccarthyfuneralhome.com

Parker

parkermemorials@yahoo.com

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

REV. DR. MICHAEL L. PUSCAS, Ed.D.

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Only The Father Knows the Day and the Time Homily of Deacon Michael Puscas

Somehow very little is sinking in. Our young people have been in religious education for years, but they don’t know their faith.

They don’t know what Catholics believe. In a recent survey of high school freshmen – Catholics – most students didn’t know what the Creed was. Nor did they know about the Particular Judgment or the Final Judgment.

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Are these students alone? Do you know about the two judgments?

All of us ask the big questions of life. Who am I? Where am I going? What happens after death?

It’s safe to say that much of Life is a mystery. We move day to day trusting in an unseen God who has promised to establish a place for us in heaven.

We all know at some point we will be called out of this life by the Author of Life. But we don’t really want to talk about it. We don’t really want to face that stark and non-negotiable reality.

Somehow, we wish that it doesn’t have to happen because we’re all a little afraid. Death is defined as that moment when the soul is separated from the body. Some have gone to great extremes to try to cheat that process.

Ted Williams, a famous and talented American baseball player, was cryogenically frozen on July 5, 2002, about 20 years ago, in

November 7, 2021

the hopes that one day he could be unfrozen and returned to life.

This $200,000 process assumes that scientists will figure out how to reunite Williams’s soul with his body. It can’t be done. Only God can reinfuse our souls into our bodies. Sorry, Ted Williams. Nice try.

at the Final Judgement, the body and the soul will be reunited in perfect state. Our souls will be reinfused into our perfect bodies.

Today in Hebrews 9:27 we hear, “It is appointed that human beings die once and then judgment”.

Why would divine justice require a second judgment?

We know God will judge us. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches this – that each person receives a personal assessment of their immortal soul at the very moment of death.

Well, what about the Final Judgement? Jesus will come at the end of time to judge all human beings. This is called the Parousia or the Second Coming. We proclaim this in our Creed when we say, “He will come to judge the living and the dead.” It’s what we believe.

We often wonder why human beings undergo two judgments.

One at the death of the individual and one at the end of the World.

Christ is coming to bring an end to human history –– to close the curtain for the last time. He’s coming to fulfill the requirement that He needs to right all of the World’s wrongs. He’s coming to make a definitive end to the power of evil. So, the outcome of Jesus’s return is the termination of human evildoing on Earth. When hell and its human allies will be utterly destroyed, and the last enemy to be destroyed is death. (1Corinthians 15:21)

The Parousia was foretold to the apostles by the angels when Jesus ascended into Heaven. They said to the apostles standing there looking up into the sky, “This Jesus who is taken up from you to Heaven will come in the way that you saw him going up into Heaven.”

Christ will call all people together for a most public Final Judgement.

In Luke 12:2-3, “There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed.

No secret that will not be known.”

Therefore, Jesus Himself warns, “Whatever you said in the darkness will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed on the housetops.”

The Final Judgment at the end of time simply confirms the Particular Judgment with the difference that

When the Lord comes again, St. Paul declares, “He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness

and manifest the motives of our hearts.”

Yet Christ invites us constantly to return to Him. 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year –– every moment He invites us to take advantage of His offering, His graces, His mercy, His kindness.

“Come to me all you who labor and are heavily burdened – come to me.”

And we can take advantage of those graces through the great Sacrament of Reconciliation, so we can return to Him, so we can be prepared. Take advantage of that sacrament often. As often as possible, because only the Father knows the day and the time for each one of us.

This is our hope. This is our salvation. This is our faith, which we boldly proclaim today in our Creed.

Transcribed from the video of Deacon Michael’s final homily which can be viewed at NorwichDiocese.org 10

With Love and Gratitude…

TELEVISION MASS DECEMBER 8, 2021 JANUARY 5, 2022 Channel 11, WCCT • Channel 20, WTXX • Channel 59, WCTX

Gratitude is defined as “the act of feeling and

communicating appreciation for people, circumstances and material possessions in our lives.”

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During this holiday season, their control. Catholic Charities Catholic Charities would like to is here to provide compassionate express our gratitude to all our human services to all individuals donors this year. The definition and families no matter their faith exemplifies our appreciation for or circumstances. For this, we are all our supporters who make it so grateful. possible for Catholic Charities to Finally, Catholic Charities carry out our provides basic mission of necessities “Providing for material You will be enriched in Help and possessions every way to be generous Creating such as in every way, which Hope” to clothing, baby through us will produce all those in needs, diapers, thanksgiving to God. need. w i p e s , Corinthians 9:11

First and foremost, we want to express our sincere appreciation to all our donors for helping us with our mission to help as many people as possible. Your donations assist the most vulnerable people in New London, Tolland, Windham and Middlesex counties. With your support, we were able to provide 124,409 meals to individuals and families this year. For this, we are most grateful.

With your support, we were able to improve the lives of so many individuals and families who are faced with difficult circumstances, often beyond

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f o r m u l a and most especially during the holiday season, with our collection of gift cards, toys and food. All this is possible because of your generosity. Again, thank you. We are so grateful.

From all of us at Catholic Charities, with love and gratitude, we wish you a blessed Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.

If you would like to express your love and gratitude by making a donation to help others in your neighborhood, please visit ccfsn. org.

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DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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CATHOLIC CHARITIES CELEBRATES 100 YEARS Providing Help and Creating Hope to Families of All Faiths in Eastern Connecticut

Our History Continues ...

By Jacqueline Keller

2000

Great Jubilee Year Catholic Charities Donors and Benefactors are remembered during the January 1 Jubilee Mass celebrated by Bishop Hart at St. Mary Mother of the Redeemer Church, Groton.

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

In May, Bishop Hart dedicated the new offices of Catholic Charities Inc./Family Services, 325 Main St., Norwich.

12

Bishop Hart established The Catholic Foundation of the Diocese of Norwich on June 6 for the financial support of the spiritual, educational and social needs of the diocesan family. This gave donors the opportunity to establish endowments especially for funding grants to Catholic Charities.

2001

Mrs. Katherine W. McGuire retired as New London District Secretary, a position she served in for 15 years. She was a tireless advocate for the poor, especially children. She directed the office with her usual kind and joyful spirit.

Catholic Charities Board Member Ken Capano presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Bishop Hart in New London in August 2002 at a Catholic Charities reception to honor him on his retirement. (Photo by Mary Zurolo)

2003

The Holy See accepted Bishop Hart’s request to retire as Bishop of Norwich on March 11.

He had reached the mandatory retirement age of 75 for bishops.

Bishop Michael R. Cote, at his Installation as Bishop of Norwich, on May 14, 2003, with Bishop Daniel A. Hart and Bishop Daniel P. Reilly. (Photo by Carol Phelps)

Bishop Michael R. Cote, Auxiliary Bishop of Portland, Maine, was named Norwich’s fifth bishop on March 11 and he was installed bishop of Norwich on May 14.

2004

Increasing financial needs of Catholic Charities required more aggressive fundraising. A proposal was made to apply for a federal grant to provide immigration and refugee services. The New London Thrift Shop was moved from Pearl Street and the office moved to Masonic Place.

Bishop Cote with members of the Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women, original supporters of Catholic Charities, at the reception in his honor following his Installation as Bishop of Norwich May 14, 2003. (Photo by Mary Zurolo)

Sister Susanne Gebrian, MHSH, retired in 2004 after ten years of service as caseworker and social worker at Catholic Charities, Norwich office. (Photo courtesy of her niece Bette Gebrian)

Our DIOCESE 2005

2008

Mr. Smey died in 2005 following a brief illness.

Pasta for Hope – Serving A

Catholic Charities merged with the Affirmation Counseling Center in Portland. The Middletown Office moved to 151 Broad St., a building Byleased Edward J. Tessman Church community and the Knights of Co from St. Sebastian Parish.

C

Executive Director, Catholic Charities

Mr. Marek Kukulka, LMFT, was named executive director.

2006

The name of Catholic Charities was officially changed to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Norwich, Inc. The Family Life Office continued as a ministry of the Diocesan Faith EventsMinistry. Bishop Cote approved the Board’s request for establishment of the Annual Catholic Charities Collection. Requests were mailed to families in the Diocese.

The Annual Golf Tournament, sponsored by the New London Advisory Board and chaired by Attorney Ralph Monaco, continued to provide necessary funding. The initiation of socials sponsored by the Norwich, New London, Willimantic and Middletown Advisory Boards provided contact with parishioners and potential donors.

from Council #14, specifically Grand Knig Charlie Nadile, Larry King, Sam Bruder, C Catholic Charities began hosting Alcoholics Anonymous and Dual atholic Charities, with the help and Rice, Dan Roberts and John DeVivo.” It w Recovery Anonymous groups. support from the Knights of Columbus great evening. The pasta was cooked to p Council #14 and the Willimantic the sauce was handmade and simmered fo Community held a Pasta for Hope the meatballs were huge and the desserts w The Willimantic office moved from Ash Street to this 88 Jackson St., a excited to have the Dinner at Saint Joseph Church Hall on Saturday, of world. We were building shared with the ministries of the Sisters of Charity, Our Lady October 29th. Children of all ages were encouraged join us for this community event which wi Mother of the Church. to dress in costumes and play games for candy. us to continue to “Provide Help and Creat Father Larry LaPointe graciously offered the use of for those most in need.

New moved to 28 HuntingtonPatrons St., inbid theonformer theThe Parish HallLondon and the Office event was a success. over twenty silent auction convent, leased from St. Mary Star of the Sea Parish.

Ed Tessman, Executive Director of Catholic which ranged from a UCONN basket, don Charities, stated that, “we could not have done this from the Willimantic Advisory Board of C without the support of Father Larry,Miceli, the Willimantic Charities, Jelly Belly Machine, Totally Gr Margaret “Libbe” Elizabeth beloved Catholic Charities New

2009

London board member and president, and Crowley Club member, entered the fullness of eternal life at age 90 on August 4.

Defending Our Religious Liberty Marek Kukulka, Catholic Charities Executive Director, and Bishop Cote received a $19,000 donation on May 6, 2006, from Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women’s President Judy Pappagallo at their annual 51st Annual Convention at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Gales Ferry.

(Photo by J. Keller)

2007

Donate your unwanted car, truck, suv, boat or camper today!

Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Norwich participated in Catholic Charities USA Campaign to Reduce Poverty in America. Norwich’s Catholic Charities services helped more than 12,000 individuals and their families.

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Annette Murphy received the Windham Region United Way 2007 Maurice Heon Volunteer of the Year Award on April 27 for her service to the Willimantic Office of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Norwich -- to which she donated her $1,500 cash award.

Catholic Charities Board Member Lois Geary and Administrative Staff Supervisor Leandra LeClair received the Connecticut Council of Family Service Agencies Family Champion Award May 17.

donationangel.org/ccfsn www.donationangel.org/ccfsn 10

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

We are called to advocate fo of human goods and rights, to life and the right not on but to live it out. We are a dom to “be Catholic,” to go ing the needs of our brothe less of their race, creed, or they are Catholic but beca

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Calendar of Events

Thursday December 2- 12

Sunday, December 19, at 7:30 PM

Visit the Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford for the Festival of Trees and Traditions. This year the Office of Faith Events as well as the One Heart Ministry will have trees made up of ornaments donated to us from around the diocese on display and in the auction to benefit the museum. For information and hours, please visit www. thewadsworth.org

Join us for the Annual Festival of Lessons and Carols. Recount our Savior’s awaited arrival and birth through scripture, prayer, and song. Bring your good cheer and voices to help us joyfully sing the hymns! A perfect way to enhance your preparation for the Christmas season.

Wadsworth Festival of Trees and Traditions

Tuesdays, December 7, 14, and 21, 7- 7:45 PM

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Virtual Diocesan Advent Mission

Take this opportunity and join Vicar General Msgr. Les Janik and Director of Catholic Family Services Mary- Jo McLaughlin to deepen your faith and take up the call to conversion while you renew your commitment to the newborn Christ and His Church. To register please contact Marianne at manicholas@norwichdiocese. net or call 860-848-2237, ext. 304

Thursday, December 9, at 7- 7:45 PM, and monthly every second Thursday Brothers in Christ: A Men’s Virtual Faith Group

Join this gathering of men who will share faith, personal experiences, and discussion. If you are interested in developing fellowship and discipleship with other men devoted to Christ, register by emailing Liza Roach at lroach@norwichdiocese.net or call (860)848-2237 ex. 305.

Merciful Saviour Gift Shop Merciful Saviour Gift Shop

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MercifulSaviorGifts.com 392 South Main Street Colchester Caring for the community for nearly 150 years 860-537-0079 MercifulSaviourGifts.com 392 South Main Street Colchester 860-537-0079 112 Lafaytte Street, Norwich, CT 060360 MercifulSaviourGifts.com p: (860) 887-2538 • UtleyandJones@att.net• www.UtleyandJones.com 14

Festival of Lessons and Carols Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Norwich

Tuesday, December 21, at 3 PM Virtual Rosary for Project Rachel

Join us virtually the third Tuesday of the month to say the rosary together for Project Rachel for an end to abortion. To join the rosary, go to: http://bit.ly/3mogX95, Meeting number 132 196 4253, Password: Mary

Saturday, March 26, 9 AM - Noon

Save the Date! The 2022 Norwich Diocesan Virtual Women’s Conference Keynote speaker, author, and certified spiritual director Liz Kelly will present ideas from her book Love Like a Saint. We will hear from Bishop Cote, name the 2022 Our Lady Queen of Hope Award recipient and more all from the comfort of your own home! Questions? Please contact The Office of Faith Events at 860-848-2237, or manicholas@norwichdiocese.net

Trust in the mercy of God’s love.

If you are carrying the grief and sorrow of past abortions, call Project Rachel a post-abortion healing ministry.

All calls are confidential.

860-861-4439

Fallen Heroes Placard Given a New Home

By Richard Feil

n Wednesday, November 10, 2021, just in time for Veterans Day, the Knights of Columbus Father Hussion Council # 2968, Old Saybrook donated its Memorial Day Parade “Fallen Heroes” Placard to Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10153 for permanent display in their VFW Hall at 315 Essex Road.

The Knights have marched, carrying this large placard, in every Old Saybrook Memorial Day Parade since 2011 when it was created.

The list of fallen heroes was veri-

fied for accuracy and updated each year prior to the parade. Parade goers often pointed out the names of loved ones as the parade passed by and many stopped to closely view it and take photos during the ceremonies held on the Town Green following the parade.

The Knights want to thank the proprietors of Lighthouse Signs in Westbrook for their generous donation of their time and expertise in developing the design and production of the placard and updating it over the past ten years.

Our Lady of Guadalupe O

n Sunday, December 12, 2021, faithful from across our Diocese will gather at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick to celebrate The Annual Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Join us at 6:30pm to pray the Rosary and attend Confession. The bilingual Eucharistic Celebration will begin at 7pm.

The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich is the Principal Celebrant. Following

the Liturgical celebration, please join us for a fiesta of delightful music, delicious food and warm fellowship, as together we honor Our Lady and ask her intercession for peace in our hearts, in our homes, in our land, and in our world. A free-will offering will be asked to cover the cost of the buffet.

For more information, please contact the Office for Hispanic Ministry: aposthispano@gmail.com

“Do not let anything worry you; do not fear sickness, accident or pain. Am I not here, she who is your mother? Are you not in the fold of my arms and under my protection? Is there anything else you need?”

Words of Our Lady to Juan Diego and to you.

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Happy Guests Return Seton Scholarship D

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Saint Bernard School Choir

By Gina Foster

A

fter a two-year hiatus, guests were happy to gather in person for the 11th Annual Seton Scholarship Dinner on Nov. 7 at the Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station.

Dr. Gail Kingston, superintendent of schools for the diocese, discussed the importance of a Catholic education. The Saint Bernard School Choir filled the large ballroom with song, leading guests in “God Bless America,” followed by “Hashkiveinu.”

Jden Gonzales, essay winner and eighthgrade student at Sacred Heart School in Groton, kindly read his essay entitled, “What a Catholic Education Means to Me.” For years, the diocese has honored the commitment of those involved in our Catholic school education. It started in 2010 when Bishop Cote was awarded the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote,

D.D. Award for Contributions to Catholic education in the Diocese of Norwich.

Since its inception the award has been presented yearly to three individuals who embody this commitment to exceptional education within the diocese.

Honored at this year’s awards dinner were Andrea D. Hoisl, director of Faith Events; The Very Reverend Dennis Perkins, Vicar for the Clergy and pastor, Saint Michael Parish, Pawcatuck; and Frederic S. Smith, teacher and coach, Saint Bernard School, Uncasville.

Andrea Hoisl, a former teacher at Xavier, has dedicated more than 30 years to Catholic education. “Educating young people about God’s unconditional love and mercy for the past 35 years has been an honor and a privilege,” she said. “I go to work every day feeling blessed to be living out my vocation. There is no one luckier than me.”

Her husband of 32 years, Tom, welcomed Andrea to the podium for her acceptance speech, and with her many friends and family members by her side she graciously accepted her award.

Father Perkins, a teacher at St. Michael School for 11 years, was introduced by Principal Doris Messina.

“It has been a privilege for me to be a pastor and teacher in a parish where its Catholic school has been such a significant and vital part of the community for over 145 years,” Father Perkins said.

More than 200 guests, along with Father Perkins’ mother, father and sister, Saint Michael parishioners, teachers and faculty joined us for this very special moment.

Frederic Smith, a recently retired teacher and coach, dedicated 53 years of service to Saint Bernard School. He is also a

Dr.Gail Kin award recip

proud Saint Ber the class of 1964.

“Though my teaching, an esse experience has be my students and said. “This is the t time at Saint Bern by his lifelong frie Art Lamoureux, F award while a lar contingent applau dedication to Cat

to Annual Dinner Jden Gonsalves with proud parents, Adelaida Nival and Rafael Gonzales, prior to delivering his essay- “What a Catholic Education Means to Me.”

rnard graduate of .

profession is ential part of my een learning from d colleagues,” he true reward of my nard.” Introduced end and colleague Fred accepted his rge Saint Bernard uded his enduring tholic education.

Fred Smith receiving his award from Bishop Cote

Father Perkins receives his award from Bishop Cote

Thank you to all those who attended the 11th Annual Seton Scholarship Dinner, and to our generous sponsors and supporters.

We appreciate your commitment to Catholic education. Proceeds from this event will provide Catholic school students with tuition assistance.

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and happy and healthy New Year. God bless you all.

A few of the silent Auction items.

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

ngston, Andrea Hoisl pient, and Bishop Cote

All Photos provided by Christopher Foster, Light Photography, LLC

17

Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Installs New President

By Judy Pappagallo

N

ina Romero-Caron was installed as the president of the Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (NDCCW) at the Diocesan Board meeting on Oct. 23, 2021.

This is not a new position for Romero-Caron; she also served as the diocesan president of the Cheyenne Diocesan Council of Catholic Women before moving back to Connecticut with her husband, Keith.

director of the Province of Hartford, which includes the Archdiocese of Hartford and the Dioceses of Bridgeport, Norwich and Providence, R.I. Nina and her husband are members of Our Lady of LaSalette Parish in Brooklyn, Conn., where she is the religious education teacher for the Confirmation class.

Congratulations Nina, the NDCCW looks forward to your guidance and pledge our support.

Nina served two years on the National Council of Catholic Women’s board as the

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Nina Romero-Caron receives flowers from past president Judy Pappagallo

18

T

he chorus of a well-known 1960’s song goes, “If you want to know if he loves you so, it’s in his kiss.” After 74 years of marriage, those words are still ringing true for Anna Karrenberg of Colchester.

On New Year’s Eve, 1925, when Anna was 15, she and a girlfriend were walking home when they ran into three neighborhood boys. The two girls exchanged a friendly New Year’s kiss with each of the boys, but there was something special and different about 16-year-old Wally Karrenberg’s kiss. They’ve been kissing ever since. In fact, Anna admitted, “He’s the best kisser I have ever kissed.”

This November 27th, the Karrenbergs will celebrate their 74th wedding anniversary. They were one of several couples honored

by Bishop Michael R. Cote during the annual Diocesan Silver and Golden Wedding Anniversary

Advent is a continuous call to hope: it reminds us that God is present in history to lead it to its ultimate goal and to its fullness, which is the Lord Jesus Christ.

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DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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CHRISTMAS JOY One of Many Gifts

By Susan Wallace

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

As Christians from different cultures throughout the world come together to celebrate the birth of Jesus, it is our opportunity to step off the treadmill of our daily lives and appreciate the true gifts of Christmas. Through our gift of faith, we know Jesus Christ is the Son of God. God’s gift to us on that first Christmas Eve was His love as His only Begotten Son was born. Jesus is our gift of hope for eternal life.

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your help, we have walked with our brothers and sisters in Haiti for more than thirty-five years. We work in Christ Roi (Christ the King) a neighborhood in Port-au-Prince (Haiti’s capital city) and with parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Port-au-Prince.

Our Diocese is twinned with the Archdiocese.

The neighborhood of Christ the King is home to 60,000 men, women, and children. Most Haitians live on $2.50 or less per day. Unlike our country, there are few, if any, safety nets for Haitians when the inevitable problems of life prevail. We offer medical assistance, healthcare services, food and nutritional support, access to education, to name a few. Our clinic employs an all-Haitian staff of 21 who,because of their compassion and helpfulness, also attract residents of other neighborhoods.

The Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti has been blessed to witness these precious gifts of faith, hope, and love through its ministry. With

Our Parish Twinning Program has approximately 14 parishes in the United States, many of them from our Diocese, who twin with parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Port-

MerryChristmas and Happy New Year

au-Prince. The foundation of this program is built on relationships; establishing connections between parishes in Haiti with parishes in the United States.

T h e s e twins have f o rg e d friendships that are invaluable.

In September, some of our U.S. parishes held their annual “Christmas in September.” Twelve barrels of gifts - seven with toys and five with essentials including supplies and new clothing - are being shipped to our Haitian Twins.

Remember to make time to connect with God’s love and receive His gift of joy. Pope Francis said, “Christmas is joy, religious joy, an inner joy of light and peace.” Nowhere is this more evident than with our Haitian brothers and sisters. While they may be economically very poor, they, like all of us, receive the true gifts of Christmas: faith, hope and love. May it bring all of us peace, especially in Haiti.

If you would like to learn more about our ministry or support our work, please visit us at.OutreachToHaiti. org or call our office 860.800.3603.

Despite all of the problems Haitians face, both natural and man-made, they have an inner joy. Their hope that tomorrow will be better than today is drawn from their faith in and love for God. This Christmas as we celebrate the birth of Christ with our loved ones, I hope we will all remember our Haitian neighbors in our prayers.

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By Susan Wallace

And the Winner is . . .

Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti Ministry held its second annual raffle “For the Love of a Child.” The only prize, a Grand Prize, was $10,000 and tickets were limited to 400 at $100 each. The drawing was held on Friday, Nov. 5 at noon at the Outreach Office in Norwich. In attendance were our Connecticut staff along with John Bouley, a member of the board, and Father Frank Rouleau, chaplain for Outreach to Haiti. Father Frank drew the winning ticket. And the lucky winner is -- Peg, who took her first trip to Haiti 22 years ago and was so inspired that she and other members of her parish in the Diocese of Norwich established a twinning relationship with Notre Dame de Lourdes in Port-au-Prince.

We are so very thankful to all of you who participated. Know your gifts (the proceeds) go directly to support our brothers and sisters in Christ Roi (Christ the King) neighborhood of Haiti’s capital city, Port-au-Prince.

To donate or for more info, visit OutreachtoHaiti.org

St. Joseph School New London, CT

“A Place Where We Discover Each Other in God’s Love”

A college prep program that opens the doors to opportunities.

A safe environment with strong Christian values.

Safety precautions in place to ensure the health and safety of all students and staff.

Visit the Virtual Admissions Center admissions@ahfbaltic.org | 54 West Main St. Baltic, CT ahfbaltic.org 860-822-6279

St. Joseph School Registration is ongoing 25 Squire Street Please call or visit New London, CT 06320 www.sjsnl.com for information Phone: 860-442-1720

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Donations of any amount are always gratefully received. May God bless you.

21

Sacred Heart School, Groton Gail Kingston, Principal 50 Sacred Heart Drive, Groton 860-445-0611 sacredheartgroton.org/school

Sacred Heart School, Taftville

Mother Christina Van Beck, SCMC, Principal 15 Hunters Ave, Taftville 860-887-1757 sacredhearttaftville.org

St. James School, Danielson Linda Marie Joyal, Principal 120 Water St, Danielson 860-774-3281 stjamesdanielson.org

St. John School, Old Saybrook

Mother Elaine Moorcroft, SCMC, Principal 42 Maynard Road, Old Saybrook 860-388-0849 saintjohnschoolos.org

St. John Paul II School, Middletown Larry Fitzgerald, Principal 87 South Main Street. Middletown 860-347-2978 JPII.org

St. Joseph School, Baltic

Sr. Mary Patrick Mulready, SCMC, Principal 10 School Hill Road, Baltic 860-822-6141 Stjosephschoolbaltic.com

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

St. Joseph School, New London

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Marianne Cote, Principle 25 Squire Street, New London 860-442-1720 SJSNL.com

St. Michael School, Pawcatuck Doris Messina, Principal West Broad St., Pawcatuck 860-599-1084 stmichaelschoolct.com

St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich Sharon Stewart, Principal 211 Broadway, Norwich 860-889-4174 st-patrickschoolnorwich.org

Academy of the Holy Family, Baltic Mother Mary David, SCMC, Principal 54 West Main St, Baltic 860-822-9272 ahfbaltic.org

Mercy High School, Middletown Alissa DeJonge, President 1740 Randolph Road, Middletown 860-346-6659 mercyhigh.com

St. Bernard School, Uncasville

Donald Macrino, Headmaster 1593 Norwich-New London Tpke, Uncasville 860-848-1271 saint-bernard.com

Xavier High School, Middletown David C. Eustis, Headmaster Brendan Donohue, Principal 181 Randolph Road, Middletown 860-346-7735 xavierhighschool.org

My dear friends, This month we focus the spotlight on another one of the outstanding educational institutions in the diocese - St. Patrick Cathedral School in Norwich.

Saint Patrick Cathedral School fosters a Christ-centered education that continues to provide children with a strong academic program and a spiritual foundation.

The St. Patrick School community is dedicated to giving students an education that encompasses a challenging academic program with a strong moral foundation based on gospel values. Students receive the skills necessary to be life-long learners while respecting their spiritual, intellectual and emotional differences. St. Pat’s provides a sound, fundamental education that reinforces the value system that parents strive to create at home.

The staff create an atmosphere of love, support, stability and calm. Everyone knows each other’s names and the school is like an extension of family. The family atmosphere along with regular monthly Mass attendance and smaller class sizes help to build that important foundation.

We foster caring for our community through fundraising and donations to our local food pantry. Community service is an integral part of who we are and showing the students how to give back helps them to be active participants within their own communities as they get older.

St. Pat’s is an affordable school and welcomes students from all faiths and ethnic groups.

The more than 136 students, who range in age from 3 years old in pre-kindergarten to eighth-graders, are blessed to be in such a nurturing loving environment. Through all of the COVID changes we are very proud of the fact that St. Pat’s continued inperson learning all year. Having all of our students here in person every day helped keep the academic balance that all children need, especially during a pandemic when the unknown was such a factor.

Affordable tuition, weekly specials (Spanish, physical education, music, computer, art, library), a competitive athletic program (cross country, boys and girls basketball, cheerleading) as well as an option to play an instrument in the school band are just If you are interested in learning more a few of the reasons so many families have about St. Patrick Cathedral School and chosen St. Pat’s for their child’s education.

call (860) 889-4174 or visit st-patrickschoolnorwich.org.

May God bless you and keep you safe.

Dr. Gail Kingston Superintendent of Schools

PLACEMENT TEST

Recognizing students have various academic strengths, skills and abilities our Placement Test allows us to put students in the correct classes to challenge and strengthen them.

SAINT BERNARD SCHOOL

Saturday, December 4, 2021 Saturday, January 22, 2022 Saturday, April 30, 2022

Save the Dates!

To register for any of the events, call 860-848-1271 or visit SaintBernardSchool.org for a 3-D Tour and to learn more!

Saint Bernard School Grades 6–12 1593 Norwich-New London Tpke Uncasville, CT 06382 Ask us about our Tailored Tuition Program to help meet your family’s unique financial situation.

OPEN HOUSE

We invite you to join us at our Virtual Open House where you can learn about our academic programs, athletics, campus life and much more.

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

seeing why so many families have chosen St. Pat’s for their children, we welcome you to visit our website or call the school to make an appointment for a private tour. Come see all that we have to offer. Financial aid is available. For more information or to schedule a tour, please

Thursday, January 13, 2022 Saturday, February 5, 2022 Thursday, February 17, 2022 23

Mercy-Xavier Walk-A-Thon A Huge Success

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Jeff Otterbein

After a 23-year hiatus, Mercy and Xavier High Schools renewed their Walk-A-Thon tradition. The spirited and competitive student fundraiser campaign kicked off Oct. 1 and culminated with walks around the Xavier High School track by each class on Oct. 22.

But that wasn’t the half of it. It was a walk-a-thon and a game-a-thon and an eat-a-thon all rolled into one.

Xavier and Mercy students had a blast, whether they were walking on the track, playing games on the football field, taking advantage of the inflatables out front, or taking their best shot at dunking someone in the dunk tank. Not to mention the food vendors, including NORA Cupcake, owned by a Mercy alum; and Lino’s Market, owned by parents of current and former Xavier students. Ben & Jerry’s, Chick-Fil-A, Chartwell’s,

and Mondo and Da Vinci pizza also were at Xavier.

Each school far exceeded its goal of raising $100,000. Xavier raised $120,058 through 1,602 donors, and Mercy came in at $120,148 from 1,806 donors. The funds are directed to each school’s Annual Fund, supporting the many programs that make these high schools special.

“Mercy High School was thrilled to welcome Xavier High School back to the Walk-a-Thon this year,” Mercy President Alissa DeJonge, Class of 1995, said. “It is a wonderful event that showcases the collaboration

and camaraderie between the two schools. We are blessed to have the support of both communities in making the fundraiser such a success.”

The weather could not have been better: a fall day that was more summerlike with temperatures well into the 70s with plenty of sunshine.

“It was just a great day here at Xavier,” Xavier Headmaster Dave Eustis said. “After 23 years it was great to be back with Mercy in this event. A huge thanks goes out to all the donors, whether they are alums, parents, students, staff, faculty,

people who just want to support Xavier and Mercy. We look forward to next year.”

Freshman Connor Purcell, Xavier’s top fundraiser, said he really enjoyed the day.

“It was great being outside and physically active, and I really enjoyed the inflatables out front,” Purcell said. “I also met a lot of new friends.”

Two schools. One family.

“It was so nice to see both schools united again after a very hard year. We could not have asked for a better turnout and the weather was perfect,” said Mercy Student Council President Madilyn Carbone, Class of 2022. “The spirit and enthusiasm during the entire month was amazing.”

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10/7/21 8:58 PM

By Kathy Balogh On Friday, November 13, 2021 students in grades 3 and 4 at St. Patrick Cathedral School made a special presentation to Norwich Police Officer Nicholas Rankin.

Officer Rankin had to put his beloved K-9 Keeto to sleep after an extended illness. Keeto worked for the police department for 9 years as Officer Rankin’s partner.

Students handed Officer Rankin homemade sympathy cards, a beautiful sketch of Officer Rankin and Keeto, drawn by Mark O’Neill,

and a dog statue with the inscription “My Hero”.

Officer Rankin thanked the students for their thoughtfulness and then introduced his friend Officer Wright and his K-9 Ozzy who put on a special demonstration for the students.

Channel 3 stopped by to video the presentation and to interview Officer Rankin about his tight bond with his partner Keeto.

An Education You Can Believe In.

Inspiring Achievement. Celebrating Community.

Embracing Service. Living Faith.

Supported financially and spiritually by 10 parishes in the Middletown Deanery.

Currently the only regional Pre-K to 8th grade school in the Norwich Diocese.

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Students Show Compassion K9 Partner Remembered

St. John Paul II Regional Catholic School 87 South Main Street / Middletown, CT 06457 Telephone: 860-347-2978 / www.jpii.org

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DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

The Gift of a Return to “Normalcy”

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By Suzanne Haulotte, Campus Minister

A

s Christmas approaches, we reflect on Advent as a time of preparation for the coming of the greatest gift we could ever receive. We look forward to a sense of normalcy in observing traditions that we had to cancel in the last year-and-a-half.

Things that didn’t seem important then because we “always did” them are very important now for the same reason.

At Saint Bernard School, the 2021-22 school year began with a feeling of normalcy. Before students arrived at school to begin classes, 10 rising seniors attended the senior leadership retreat at Holy Family Passionist Center in August. The pandemic canceled the 2020 summer retreat.

There was an air of excitement and gratitude as the students arrived at the center. During the retreat, students learned leadership skills and ways to put them into practice

at their schools. Parents thanked the theology teachers who attended the retreat and were happy the students could spend needed time with their peers.

Those senior leaders assisted the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools student leaders in a freshman retreat on Sept. 19.

The retreat’s theme encompassed the Xaverian values of humility, simplicity, compassion, zeal, and trust. Small group discussions and witness talks centered on how we experienced these values during last year’s quarantine and pandemic. The retreat allowed freshmen time to reflect on their resilience and how the little things helped them cope.

Bishop Michael Cote celebrated the opening Mass on Sept. 23 with the juniors and seniors in the school auditorium. All other students participated in the Mass via livestream in their classrooms.

This was the first time a schoolwide Mass was celebrated since Ash Wednesday of 2020. It was not the community gathering we hoped for, but it was a gift that we could acknowledge and celebrate Christ in our lives and in our school.

On Oct. 13 middle school students met for a half-day retreat. The theme focused on loving yourself and increasing self-esteem.

Students painted full face masks to reflect on the many masks that people wear to hide their true selves. They also discussed ways to build self-esteem and how to be a better friend, especially to those who might hide who they really are.

As the school year continues, it is important for us to see these events that “we always do” as gifts we have been given that may have been taken for granted.

Every retreat, Mass, prayer service and

sports event reminds us that God is with us for those special moments and our everyday happenings.

During this Christmas season, we need to look beyond the wrapped up gifts in pretty paper and bows to the simple blessing of gathering together as we have always done, and anticipate with happiness a return to those traditions that shape our Saint Bernard community.

~ MDP ~

Xavier Student Leads Book Drive For Babies

R

eading helps babies during their stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and well beyond.

Recently the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center had a campaign to collect books for parents of babies in the NICU. The NICU can be a challenging place for parents and family members, and reading can soothe both baby and parent. It also helps the baby with development. Thus the hospital’s Tiny Tales reading program.

Studies have shown, notes the hospital, that even before birth, babies are very aware. At 25 weeks babies start to hear sounds. By 32 weeks they start to know their mother’s voice. The time between 32 and 39 weeks of pregnancy is important for the baby’s brain development.

Enter Aedan Frazer, Xavier Class of 2023, who was an avid reader growing up, and his mother Milena, a NICU nurse at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. Aedan led a book drive at Xavier in late September, during which about 430 new books were brought in by students, faculty and staff, all to benefit the Connecticut Children’s

Hospital program. Aedan also had collected a few hundred outside of Xavier.

“It was a good opportunity to help,” Aedan said.

“For some, books are a luxury, and they shouldn’t be,” Milena said.

Milena and her husband Jesse ’92 read often to their children growing up.

“We were a book-rich family and we read a lot to Aedan and Jesse [Class of 2020 and now a freshman at UConn],” Milena said. “You don’t realize it, but you’re fortunate to be able to buy books, to have books, to read books, and know it’s such a good and important thing to do with your kids growing up.”

Another statement that has been widely distributed again speaks to the power of reading to children: Studies have shown that the number of words a child knows when entering kindergarten can predict future learning success.

Just as books made a difference in the lives of the Frazer family, the effort of Aedan and the Xavier community will allow others to experience building literacy from birth.

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Sacraments 101 + A.M.D.G. +

Volume 13: Holy Orders Part I

By Father Michael Bovino

But there is another important piece that is distinct for these two sacraments. Unlike the other five sacraments we’ve looked at, Marriage and Holy Orders are unique in that they aren’t directly aimed at the salvation of the individuals who receive them but rather, at the salvation of others. The Catechism states that “Holy Orders and Matrimony are directed towards the salvation of others; if they contribute as well to personal salvation, it is through service to others that they do so. They confer a particular mission in the Church and serve to build up the People of God” (CCC, 1534).

We see this in Marriage through the husband and wife loving one another for the salvation of their spouse and children. So too, with Holy Orders, those who receive it, are not (or should not), receive it primarily for the sake of their own salvation but for the salvation of the members of the Church.

In other words, Saint Augustine is pointing out that his role as a bishop, his role as someone who has received Holy Orders, is primarily aimed at the service of members of the Church. The fact that he’s a Christian is for the sake of his own salvation but the fact that he’s a bishop is for the purpose of helping others to be saved.

Therefore, there is a greater similarity than we might think between those who receive Holy Orders (deacons, priests, and bishops) and those who are married. Both married persons and those who receive Holy Orders are called to give themselves generously in love for the salvation of others. This is the Christlike kind of love that Saint Paul exhorts Christian husbands to in his letter to the Ephesians: Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the Church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her…that she might be holy and without blemish (Eph 5:25-27).

The sacrificial love that Saint Paul exhorts Christian husbands to is similar to the kind of sacrificial love that deacons, priests, and bishops are likewise called to. Husbands are to lay down their lives for their wives, while those in Holy Orders are to lay down their lives for the Church and her members. Truly, this is Christian love…to lay down one’s life for one’s friends (Jn 15:13).

Saint Augustine, one of the bishops in the early Church and one of the greatest, most influential, and heroic saints of the Church, expresses this in one of his homilies. He preached the following to his people: “I Next month we’ll conclude Holy Orders by looking at the matter and must distinguish carefully between two aspects of the role the Lord has form that are proper to it.

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

given me…The first aspect is that I am a Christian; the second, that I am a leader. I am a Christian for my own sake, whereas I am a leader for your sake; the fact that I am a Christian is to my own advantage, but I am a leader for your advantage” (Liturgy of the Hours, Volume IV, 255).

In concluding our look at the Sacrament of Matrimony in the previous article, we’ve now covered six of the seven sacraments instituted by Christ. That leaves us to discuss one last sacrament which falls into the same category as Matrimony/ Marriage. It is the Sacrament of Holy Orders. Holy Orders, like Marriage, is also a “Sacrament at the service of communion.” As was stated before, this means that these two sacraments are aimed at fostering communion (relationship) at either the level of the family (Marriage) or at the level of the local church/diocese (Holy Orders).

Class is in session...

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Fai t h Sparks

Following the Example of the Holy Family

By Mary-Jo McLaughlin, Catholic Family Services

DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

W

30

hat makes a family holy? When I asked that question on a Google search in preparation for writing this column, I found several responses. At the top was this quote from Bishop Robert Barron, founder of the Word on Fire Catholic Ministries. He said that as far as the biblical writers were concerned, what makes a family holy is, “It’s willingness to surrender to the purposes of God.” Surely, that is one of the best descriptions of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph and the extraordinary witness they give all of us of their fidelity to God’s call in their life.

Mary and Joseph placed their trust in God’s plan for their lives whether they understood it or not. They did not know what the future would hold for them or their family, not unlike most newlyweds starting out. Mary and Joseph knew in their hearts that if they placed God at the center

of their marriage they would not falter. They understood that if they were faithful to serving God through the gift of family life, and did all that that gift would require of them – passing their faith on to their child, honoring and accepting one another, treating one another with compassion, and forgiving each other rather than holding on to hurts – God would bless them abundantly. And He did.

No doubt their lives saw their share of sorrow, but there were also many blessings and joys, not much different from many of our families.

Recently, my husband’s family gathered at our home to celebrate my father-in-law Ken’s 97th birthday. There were 17 of us seated around the table to hear Dad as he choked back tears thanking all of us for the gift we have been to him in his life. He spoke of his great love for his wife Peg, 93, who has stood by his side for 73 years and the joy she has

brought him in helping create the family he holds so dear.

As I sat there, I thought of the incredible blessing my husband and his four siblings have received in still having both of their parents a vital presence in their lives. With both of my parents long gone to heaven, I have treasured the gift of having Ken and Peg as parents of my heart. Looking at both of them across the dining room table, I was struck by the holiness I saw reflected in their eyes. Surely they, like Mary and Joseph, surrendered to the purposes of God. The story of Ken and Peg are the stories of so many couples today striving to be faithful to what God asks of them in their vocation to marriage and family life. They raise their families in homes where they always mention God’s name and continuously model Christian values. Their children know what it means to be accepted, affirmed, supported and loved. And while they may not

always succeed, they constantly strive to be understanding of the limitations of one another with a generous dose of gratitude for all that has been given them.

Pope Francis wrote, “No family drops down from heaven perfectly formed; families need constantly to grow and mature in the ability to love.”

Each of us who are blessed to be called parents have, like Mary and Joseph, been entrusted with the sons and daughters of God to raise, nurture and love. When we answer that call and help one another grow and mature, as Pope Francis writes, “in the ability to love,” trusting that God is by our side, doesn’t that make us holy families, too?

This Advent and Christmas season may each of us be like Mary and ponder all these things in our hearts.

Ignite Your Faith.

Visit NorwichDiocese.org/FaithSparks for additional resources.

From The Cathedral of St. Patrick Streaming live on WCTY.com Tune in early for Christmas Carols

Airing on WICH 1310AM /94.5 FM and WCTY 97.7FM

at the

Cathedral of St. Patrick

Christmas Eve

4pm, 6pm Vigil Mass Midnight Mass

Christmas Music begins at 11:30PM

Christmas Day

7:30am, 9am, 10:30am, 5pm

Watch the live-stream video of the Midnight Mass on NorwichDiocese.org beginning at 11:30PM

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PRAYER INTENTION

Let us pray for the catechists, summoned to announce the Word of God: may they be its witnesses, with courage and creativity and in the power of the Holy Spirit.

- Pope Francis

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DECEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Christmas Mass Times

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CATHOLIC Made Possible in part through your generous support of the Annual Catholic Appeal

The Good News is that Christmas brings the gift of faith, the blessings of hope and the peace of His love.

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Wishing you every blessing this Christmas and in the New Year.

Your Four County Catholic Team * Donations can be sent to 25 Otis Street, Norwich or made on-line at NorwichDiocese.org/FCCGIVE